Allied Waste Services food-waste composting program, one year later

by Nate Rafn

In May 2010, we reported on Allied Waste's food-waste composting pilot program in Salem. At that time, a handful of businesses had agreed to participate, including Cascade Baking Company and Salem Conference Center.

Local ingredients are primary focus at Thistle in McMinnville

by Nate Rafn

It's becoming more common for restaurants to use local ingredients, or at least mention it on their menu. I often see menu text that reads something like this: "We use local ingredients when we can." or "We use fresh eggs from Smith Family Farm when they're available."

Harmony JACK Farms looks to build on cooperative farming model

by Nate Rafn

Andy Westlund established Harmony JACK Farms with his family in 2001. They raise cattle, pigs, chickens, and goats (including Kiko goats) primarily on organic pasture land, located just south of Stayton, Oregon. Their meat products are marketed through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, delivering as far north as Vancouver, Washington, and as far south as Eugene, Oregon.

Conversation with Sloan Aagaard, co-owner of Teal Creek Farms

Sloan Aagaard and her partner Keith Nelson operate Teal Creek Farms, a 40-acre farm in the beautiful rolling hills south of Dallas, Oregon. Nearly 2 acres are devoted to organic fruits and vegetables, while the rest is used to grow hay and a small amount of livestock.

Fresh produce from Teal Creek Farms can be found at LifeSource Natural Foods in Salem, and at Salem Public Market every Saturday. Because Sloan and Keith grow for a relatively small local market, they focus on raising a diverse selection of foods. They grow raspberries, potatoes, onions, kale, chard, lettuces, and herbs, among other crops. They also grow vegetable starts for those interested in cultivating backyard gardens.

Interview with Falls City baker, Keith Zinn

by Nate Rafn

Keith Zinn owns and operates The Bread Board, an artisan bakery in Falls City, Oregon. He and his partner, John, are known for creating rustic sourdough breads with chewy, caramelized crusts. Some of their breads are whole grain, others are enhanced by savory herbs, nuts and seeds. Sourdough enthusiasts will find these breads at the store in Falls City, and at farmers' markets throughout the Willamette Valley, including Salem Saturday Market, The McMinnville Market, Silverton Farmers Market, and Independence Farmers Market.

Will Newman of Oregon Sustainable Agriculture Land Trust talks about farming

Interview with Salem-based rock band, Root Villa